Senate Chambers [Source] Translate

The meeting began with a roll call confirming the presence of 32 senators, establishing a quorum. Chaplain Doug Armstrong led a prayer, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance by Senate page Deacon Davis. The Journal was read and approved as corrected. Communications included a notification from Senator Todd Lakey designating Brian Merrill as a substitute for Legislative District 23, effective February 19, 2026. Senator Den Hartog outlined the agenda, indicating early orders of business and several pieces of legislation would be addressed before a break for a page graduation ceremony. Unanimous consent was granted to read petitions, resolutions, and memorials by number, author, and title only. Senate Concurrent Resolution 120 was introduced, encouraging the advancement of used nuclear fuel reprocessing capabilities in Idaho and affirming a commitment to a 1995 settlement agreement, to be referred to the Judiciary and Rules Committee for printing. Reports from standing committees included the delivery of enrolled Senate Bill 1222 to the Governor and Senate Joint Memorial 108 to the Secretary of State. Senate Bills 1276, 1291, 1292, and 1293 were reported out with recommendations to pass. Messages from the Governor noted that Governor Brad Little signed Senate Bill 1222. The Senate received multiple House Bills from the House of Representatives, which were referred to appropriate committees. Several Senate Bills were introduced by the State Affairs Committee and referred to the Judiciary and Rules Committee for printing. During the second reading of bills, House Bill 555 was referred to the 13th Order of Business for a third reading. In the 13th Order, Senate Bill 1242 was presented, and after a request to dispense with further reading was granted, it passed unanimously with 35 votes in favor. Senate Bill 1243 was introduced, also passed unanimously after a similar request. The meeting continued with the consideration of House Bill 514, which allows students to take their licensing exam after completing 80% of their education hours. This bill passed with 35 votes in favor. House Bill 515, which removes an unused state reporting requirement for bullying incidents, also passed unanimously. Senate Bill 1244, concerning regional library systems, was passed unanimously after repealing outdated code sections. Senate Bill 1261, regarding the reemployment of retired members in the public employer retirement system, was explained by Senator Brooks and passed with 35 votes in favor. Announcements included recognition of the United States women's hockey team and the achievements of several students in the page program. The meeting concluded with a light-hearted discussion about walk-up songs, favorite movies, and personal preferences, followed by an announcement about ticket availability for girls' basketball and recognition of Foster Care Awareness Day. Senator Harris moved to adjourn the meeting until 11 a.m. the following day, which was approved.